Bhutan is the last Mahayana Buddhist Kingdom and the teachings of this school of Buddhism are intrinsic to the daily life of its people. Explore the Land of the Thunderdragon on this active adventure that follows Buddhist teachings that we are not set apart from nature but rather that we are part of it. Approach the country actively by biking in villages, walking up to pilgrimage sites in the hills and trekking along trails in search of bird life in the Gangtey Valley. View the stunning Himalayan scenery from high passes decorated with prayer flags. Wander through ancient dzongs and marvel at Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched high above the valley on the side of a cliff. Explore the remote Haa Valley where you have the option to stay in a family farmhouse. Here, the spinning of prayer wheels, the murmur of mantras and the glow of butter lamps in the houses are still important features of the everyday life.

**Visit during our scheduled November 7-15, 2015 trip to experience the annual Black-Necked Crane festival. Celebrated at the courtyard of Gangtey Goenpa in Phobjikha valley the festival is an occasion for the Bhutanese to rejoice and celebrate the arrival of this endangered and majestic bird which becomes an inseparable part of their daily lives during the winter months. The annual black-necked crane festival is organized to generate awareness and understanding on the importance of conserving the endangered Black‐Necked cranes.

The festival includes cultural programs such as folk songs and masked dances, crane dances and environmental conservation-themed dramas and songs by school children.